As with any type of cancer, knowing the symptoms early is vital to treatment. Prostate cancer affects the male reproductive system, specifically the prostate gland, which is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid and helps to transport sperm. Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in males of advanced age. While many prostrates progress slowly and don’t cause serious risk, other types may be aggressive and quick to spread.

This is why it’s important to know the early symptoms of prostate cancer:

1. A burning sensation when urinating
Many prostate cancer patients identify a burning sensation when urinating. This occurs when the prostate cells become inflamed. It’s this inflammation that can lead to painful urination and discomfort.

2. Difficulty controlling urine
When the prostate gland becomes inflamed, patients tend to have difficulty starting and stopping urine flow. An early warning of prostate cancer can include difficulty urinating, decrease in the volume of urine, and lower velocity when urinating. All concerns should be brought to the attention of a doctor immediately.

3. Frequent urge to urinate
Patients with prostate cancer often develop a frequent urge to urinate. In fact, loss of bladder control is common in prostate cancer patients since the prostate gland is located near the bladder. The inflammation in the area can press against the bladder and lead to a lack of bladder control.

4. Blood in urine and semen
Patients who experience hematuria, or blood in the urine, should seek medical treatment immediately. This symptom often marks the onset of prostate cancer. The presence of blood in semen is another common issue among prostate cancer patients. Medical doctors will investigate further to rule out the possibility of prostate cancer and other issues.

5. Erectile dysfunction
Many patients with prostate cancer suffer from erectile dysfunction in the advanced stages. Age is a risk factor for prostate cancer. Age is also a risk factor for erectile dysfunction. However, erectile dysfunction can result from prostate cancer inflammation, treatment (i.e., radiation or hormone therapy) or prostate cancer surgery. Medications prescribed by your doctor can help to treat erectile dysfunction.

6. Painful ejaculation
Patients with prostate cancer may also experience pelvic pain, blood present in semen, and painful ejaculation. Painful ejaculation may occur accompanied by decreased fluid ejaculated, or discomfort or weakness when ejaculating. Swelling in the legs, pelvic area, and lower back pain may also contribute to painful ejaculation.

The above symptoms of prostate cancer can be managed effectively if diagnosed early. It is necessary to take necessary actions and carry out diagnostics for prostate cancer treatment. Failure to treat prostate cancer early can lead to cancer spreading to other parts of the body.